Flames' Johnny Gaudreau named finalist for Lady Byng Memorial Trophy

After a quick and early playoff exit there’s some good news for Flames’ forward Johnny Gaudreau.

The 23-year-old American has been named a finalist for the NHL’s Lady Byng Memorial Trophy, an award given to the player that exemplifies the best sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct while also excelling in their play.

The third-year left winger joins Mikael Granlund (Minnesota) and Vladimir Tarasenko (St. Louis) as the announced trio of finalists.

In his third season Gaudreau scored 61 points (18-43-61) while maintaining a career-low with just four penalty minutes. His two minor penalties tied him for fewest among players who had played at least 41 games this season. Impressively he spent on average 18 and a half minutes on the ice, four minutes more than anyone in that same category.

While Granlund (26-43-69) and Tarasenko (39-36-75) both scored more they also spent more time in the box with a total of 12 penalty minutes a piece.

Gaudreau is no stranger to NHL award nominations. After his 2014-15 rookie campaign, in which he helped Calgary not only reach the playoffs, but also advance to the second round, the forward became a Calder Memorial Trophy finalist, eventually finishing third in voting.

If Gaudreau wins he will join Jiri Hudler as the second Calgary player to win the Lady Byng in the last three seasons. Hudler won in 2015.

Gaudreau won’t be taking a break from the ice just yet. He’s set to join Team USA at the World Championships in Paris and Cologne next month.

The award winner will be announced at the 2017 NHL Awards on June 21st in Las Vegas.